August 10, 2011 by Ann McLaurin
Have you begun planning your expatriates’ relocation to London for 2012? If not, it is not that far off and advance planning will determine the success of any assignment to the UK.
For starters, 5.3 million visitors are estimated to descend upon London next summer. Two hundred nations from around the globe and 14,700 competitors will take part in the opening ceremony on July 27, 2012. Naturally, there will be obstacles in accommodating your expatriates.
Below are five policy components that should be reviewed in preparation of London’s 2012 summer events:
- Rental Housing / Temporary Accommodations
The requirement for rental properties will be significant - beginning next month. Compared to other parts of the country, rental properties in London are already rather limited. The Games are expected to require the availability of thousands of additional properties. Important factors will include location and size. The difficulties in finding rental properties and temporary accommodations will include furnished apartments and hotel rooms. Also, be prepared for a rental increase with the increased demand.
- Transportation
Transport for London (TfL) is carrying out numerous improvements in preparation for 2012, but be prepared for it to take more time to get anywhere. London’s transport system will struggle to cope with demand. According to inspectors from the International Olympic Committee, transportation is one of London's weakest areas. The city’s transport network is running at near-full capacity, according to a report carried out by the London Assembly’s Transport Committee. Dedicated temporary lanes, similar in appearance and function to bus lanes, will be assigned for the use of official Olympic vehicles and emergency services only.
- Household Good Shipments
There could potentially be a delay to shipments and cargo flights with the rise in people visiting the UK during the Olympic Games. Because of the school summer holidays, it is already a busy time for household goods to be shipped. Assignees may want to postpone the time they arrive to mid-September 2012, or consider having their family join them at a later date.
- Visas and Immigration
The UK government will run security checks on more than 450,000 workers and participants. They will consider applications for visas to attend the Games, and will support other law enforcement agencies responsible for security. Processing time for visitor visas can be as little as 15 working days, but they will consider an application for a visa up to 3 months before the travel date. Advance planning is advised when applying for UK visas.
- Security
The day after London was awarded the 2012 Olympics, the capital was rocked by bomb blasts which killed 52 train and bus commuters, injuring more than 700. In case the city might be targeted during the Games, organizers have worked with the government, police and other essential support services to put in place measures to prevent any repeat of that terrible day. A review of your security policy should be considered.
As The Olympics Draw Closer
Managing the expatriates’ expectations is key. Consider monitoring the number of assignees you need to move and try to avoid start and end dates that coincide with any of the 2012 events.
If an assignment cannot be delayed until October of 2012, plan your move into London with as much advance notice as possible. Additionally, it may be worth re-evaluating the policy, programs and possible exceptions, due to the increased costs in various benefits.
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